The Glaciers' Touch Remains

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Why we love it

The glaciers that shaped so much of North America and other continents left enduring marks on the state of Washington, particularly in the Puget Lowland region. The map, entitled Glacial Landforms of the Puget Lowland, peels away a green carpet of trees and soil to reveal amazing features the glaciers left behind. A focus on six distinct geologic examples educates and intrigues. We love how this map relies on minimal moving parts: your eyes and your curiosity. 

Why it works

This map works because it pays attention to detail in color, contrast, and layout. The marginalia hug the curves of the glaciers’ paths. The callouts deftly reveal evidence that a casual observer might otherwise miss. The map’s labels are legible, but do not visually distract from the focus on the underlying terrain. Viewers become intrigued by glacial geology, motivated to look for more drumlins, mounds, kettles, eskers, outwash channels, and fault scarps.

Important steps

  • Assemble and resample data

    Use Lidar-derived data to make this map, and resample it to an appropriate resolution for the map scale.
    How to use LiDAR data in ArcGIS Pro
    How to scale LiDAR data

  • Create multiple models and layers

    Create multiple digital elevation models (DEMs) and hillshade layers with different visual parameters. Colorise and overlay layers for desired terrain visualisation.
    Learn about digital elevation models
    Learn about shaded relief functions

  • Keep map labels clear

    Use transparency and toned-down colours to make your labels clear without distracting from the map.
    How to label in ArcGIS Pro

  • Use graphics software

    Enhance colours and smoothly blend raster layers by using graphics software.
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Requirements

  • Data and software

    Data sources: Washington State Department of Natural Resources, University of Washington, Washington Geological Survey, and Washington Division of Geology and Earth Resources. Software: ArcGIS Desktop and Adobe Creative Cloud

  • Analysis

    Create and blend multiple Lidar hillshades with varying parameters to create visually pleasing terrain. Blend multiple digital elevation model and relative elevation model layers with differing colour ranges to emphasise low-lying areas and landforms.
    Revealing Landforms with LiDAR
    Relative elevation model layers

  • Time

    This map took about eight days. Most of the time was spent creating the Lidar images and basemap. The rest was spent on labeling and descriptions.
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Tips and tricks

  • Include landmarks

    When showing ancient landscapes, be sure to orient the reader by including contemporary landmarks such as present-day cities and coastlines.

  • Simplify

    Contrast is key. Aim for simplification while maintaining great detail.
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Resources

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Washington Geological Survey logo

Map Author

Washington Geological Survey

Our mission is to collect, develop, use, distribute, and preserve geologic information. We work to promote safety, health, and welfare for the citizens of Washington, to protect the environment, and support the economy.

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